Coco Gauff’s toil pays off as American sets up US Open final against Aryna Sabalenka

• Gauff beats Karolina Muchova after protesters interrupt play
• Sabalenka fights back from set down against Madison Keys

The best summer of Coco Gauff's career began with a dose of crushing disappointment. After arriving at Wimbledon full of hope, her great ambitions were instantly extinguished with her first round exit. Many sleepless nights followed as she tried to figure out how to take the next step forward in her career.

It is to Gauff's immense credit that her work ethic and commitment continue to pay off so handsomely. In a tension-filled encounter that was delayed due to protests from climate change activists, Gauff's consistency and composure guided her into her first US Open final as she defeated Karolina Muchova 6-4, 7-5.